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Phone: (404) 256-4457 Toll-Free: (800) 233-0706
Administrative Office hours:  Mon. -Thurs. at 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM 
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Doctors’ hours will differ from Administrative Office hours, please call for Doctors’ hours.
The Medical Quarters
5555 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd. NE, Suite 190
Atlanta, GA 30342
Phone: (404) 256-4457 Toll-Free: (800) 233-0706
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skin conditions

Skin Condition of the Month: Red and Brown Spots

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Frequently Asked Questions about Age SpotsHave you ever looked in the mirror and noticed new spots on your skin that you would swear weren’t there the day before? This is common for many of us, especially as we age or spend time in the sun. While these spots are generally harmless, it is important to understand what they are and why they appear. At Dermatology Associates of Atlanta, we are all about skin care-from head to toe, for all ages and skin types. So, this March, we are highlighting red and brown spots as our skin condition of the month.

What Causes Red and Brown Spots:

Age, genetics, and sun exposure all play a role in the development of red and brown spots. And although many people are born with these spots, they are often called age spots or liver spots, because they generally increase as you get older. It is also important to note they have nothing to do with your liver. Instead, the spots that appear result from melanin, or pigment cells, that have clumped together in a high concentration. When our bodies are exposed to ultraviolet light like that of the sun or tanning beds, our pigment cells become overactive, developing these red and brown spots.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Red and Brown Spots:

Red and brown spots can appear on people differently depending on their skin tone, genetics, and amount of sun exposure. However, some symptoms are common among many patients. These symptoms include:

  • Round or oval in shape
  • Tan, dark brown, or red
  • Can be a singular spot or appear in a cluster
  • More commonly found on the face, neck, hands, and arms, but can appear anywhere
  • Can be as small as a freckle or as large as ½ inch across
  • Painless

While red and brown spots are generally harmless, your dermatologist must examine any new spots, as some skin cancers can mimic the appearance of age spots. If you notice any new spots on your skin, especially if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, contact Dermatology Associates of Atlanta to schedule an examination.

  • Black or unusual in color
  • Growing in size and has an irregular border
  • Discharge or blood

What are the Treatments for Red and Brown Spots:

There are a variety of treatments available for red and brown spots. The best course of treatment will be determined during your consultation at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta. Since each case is unique, we tailor each treatment to your needs, skin type and diagnosis, providing you with maximum results. In general, we have successfully treated red and brown spots with the following techniques:

  • Topical Creams available by prescription only and can minimize the appearance of pre- cancer spots but work best in conjunction with other treatments.
  • Cryosurgery utilizes extremely cold temperatures to freeze and destroy spots.
  • Ablative and non-ablative laser treatments remove red and brown spots without damaging surrounding tissue. In some cases, more than one treatment may be needed to achieve the best possible results.
  • Chemical peels resurface the skin and encourage new collagen and cellular production which minimize the appearance of age spots.

Getting expert Care at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta

While most red and brown spots are harmless, it is important that you have any new spots examined by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist or physician assistant to rule out melanoma and other skin cancers. Our medical providers at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta have extensive experience evaluating and treating red and brown spots. If you have any concerns about new red and brown spots that have appeared or would like them diagnosed and removed, contact Dermatology Associates of Atlanta to schedule an appointment. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more skin care tips and practice updates.

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How Lack of Sleep Affects Your Skin Health

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sleeping-femaleBelieve it or not, getting your beauty sleep is a real thing. When you rest, it allows your body to recharge, heal and repair itself. During sleep, blood flow is increased, collagen is rebuilt, UV damage is repaired and wrinkles and age spots are reduced. When you skimp on sleep, you end up doing your body a disservice and causing more harm than good. Sleep deprivation has both short- and long-term effects on your appearance and health.

At Dermatology Associates of Atlanta, we have seen our fair share of clinical problems caused by lack of sleep. We want to help make you aware of what can happen to your skin if you continue to toss and turn at night and offer a few solutions.

After just one poor night of sleep, the effects already begin to show physically in the form of hanging eyelids, swollen eyes, paler skin, dark undereye circles and wrinkles and fine lines. A few nights in a row of poor sleep can not only make the skin worse and harm your body, but it can also have negative emotional effects as well. This can lead to you feeling more stressed which can lead to even more physical concerns.

Lack of rest can also deprive your skin of moisture and cause the pH levels of your complexion to decrease which can result in your skin appearing less youthful and more dull. When your pH levels drop, the skin struggles to produce the moisture it needs to keep your skin hydrated and refreshed. This can lead to dry skin, redness, unevenness, acne breakouts, and inflammation. Using certain skincare products and vitamins for this issue may help to curb these effects and improve your pH levels. You should always speak to your provider before you try these methods. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this is not a replacement for adjusting your sleep schedule.

While we have emphasized the importance of getting enough sleep, there are other steps that you can take before bed to help you maximize your long-term skin health. In addition to sleeping enough, we recommend washing your face before bed, using a moisturizer before you sleep, keeping water on your bedside table, using a skin-friendly pillowcase, and keeping the room dark while you snooze. Some people may find listening to ambient noise, meditating, or reading before bed helpful.

Beauty sleep is essential. If you find yourself struggling to get enough sleep every night, you may have already started to notice negative changes in your appearance. To learn more about the correlation between sleep deprivation and unhealthy skin, book an appointment with Dermatology Associates of Atlanta today. Additionally, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more information about our skin care and dermatology services.

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Why Acne is Common in the Winter and How You Can Treat It

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Woman-in-ScarfAs the temperature drops, you may have noticed that your skin has been acting differently. Colder weather is commonly associated with drier skin, but freezing temperatures can also lead to an increase in acne and breakout frequency. The cause of seasonal acne can be attributed to various factors, but, luckily, there are treatment options available. To help, the board-certified dermatologists and physician assistants at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta are here to break down the correlation between cold weather and acne and what you can do to help treat your breakout.

Cold Weather and Acne: What’s the Correlation?

In the winter months, the cool air holds less moisture which means your oil glands will start to overproduce sebum in an effort to hydrate the skin. This well-intentioned overproduction of sebum can cause clogged pores and breakouts. Additionally, if you’re using the wrong skincare products to treat your breakouts, this can also lead to dry, flaky and irritated skin. Different seasons generally require choosing two different skincare regimens and products.

Other contributing factors include taking hot showers and your skin being exposed to heated indoor spaces. Both of these factors can cause drier skin because they remove moisture from the air and the skin. Investing in a humidifier can help you add well-needed moisture to the air inside your home. When you take a shower, the water doesn’t need to be freezing, but you need to make sure you avoid standing directly underneath hot water for longer than necessary.

As always, make sure to avoid touching your face. In our current climate this may seem like a no brainer, but even in your home it’s important to limit the amount of time you spend touching your face. In the winter, your hands may be covered in pore-clogging hand lotions as well as the typical dirt and bacteria they normally carry.

How to Treat Seasonal Acne

Determining the right acne treatment for your skin depends on a few factors. Something to pay attention to is your moisturizing habits. Treating your skin with moisturizer is an essential skincare step, but using the wrong moisturizer or using too much can negatively impact your skin. Make sure the moisturizer you’re applying has ingredients that encourage hydration and retain moisture. Look for products that are non-comedogenic, which means that they have been tested and were found to not clog pores. Also, do not over use moisturizer because this can result in your skin becoming clogged and broken out.

Another thing to take note of is what acne products you are using. As mentioned earlier, some acne products can make skin drier and may not be suitable for use during the winter months. Check the ingredients on your products and make sure to steer clear of drying agents such as alcohol. Hydrating acne skincare products are readily available and are highly effective at treating both dry skin and acne.

If you make changes to your skincare routine and still don’t notice a difference, receiving a hydrating treatment may be a great solution for your skin. At Dermatology Associates of Atlanta, we offer specialized treatments that are designed to add hydration to the skin and to minimize the appearance of acne. Treatments such as chemical peels and HydraFacials can significantly improve the look of dry, tired and broken out skin.

We are here to help with your skincare needs. Our board-certified dermatologists and physician assistants can assess your skin and recommend solutions for your concerns. If you’re interested in learning more about the skincare products and treatments we offer for dry skin, acne and more, contact Dermatology Associates of Atlanta today. Additionally, make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more skincare insights and recommendations.

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Common Myths and Misunderstandings About Shingles

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female-ichy-armShingles is one of those conditions that is often misunderstood. Many of our patients initially think of shingles as a common and minor annoyance that merely requires them to take a few days off work to recover. The reality is that shingles can cause severe damage, especially if you don’t take the necessary steps to prevent or treat it.

Our skin care providers at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta believe that knowledge is the first step in taking better care of your skin. With that in mind, we are busting some of the most common myths and misunderstandings about shingles while offering the facts and guidance you need to know.

1. Shingles Is Primarily an Uncomfortable Rash

A skin rash is the symptom people most associate with shingles, but the illness goes far beyond the skin. First of all, shingles can have numerous symptoms besides the rash, such as a headache, unexplained tingling or pain in certain areas of the body, a fever, chills, and stomach discomfort. In fact, these symptoms sometimes begin before shingles does.

The rash itself is also commonly misunderstood. The most frequent area a shingles rash appears is around the torso, but you can get it in any area of your body too. Don’t assume that a rash isn’t shingles if it isn’t on your torso. Shingles rashes can also be difficult to diagnose and they often mimic other conditions, so it is crucial to visit our dermatologists promptly for an early diagnosis.

More importantly, though, patients need to know that shingles can cause serious health complications. If you don’t get the medication you need within the first three days, shingles can lead to nerve damage from a condition called post-herpetic neuralgia, which causes long-term nerve pain sometimes lasting years after you recover. In addition, shingles can damage vital organs like your heart, liver, and lungs. If the condition affects your face or head, you may even lose your sight or your hearing.

2. Shingles Vaccines Are Only for the Elderly

Most people are aware of the shingles vaccine, but they believe it is only for people who are elderly. In reality, there is a newer shingles vaccine that is administered as a series of two injections, so the CDC now recommends that everyone over 50 receives the shingles vaccine. If you receive the vaccine, you dramatically lower your risk of developing shingles. If you do develop shingles after getting the vaccine, the illness will be less severe than it would have been without the vaccine.

3. Shingles Is Just the Chickenpox

Shingles and chickenpox are caused by the same virus, but the two illnesses are very different. Their symptoms are different and the reactions they cause in your body are different too. Shingles tends to be more severe, although chickenpox can lead to serious complications as well. The important point to remember is that if you had chickenpox as a child and you recovered well, you should not assume that shingles will have the same outcome.

4. If You Get Shingles, You Should Stay Home to Recover

Most people do not go to the doctor every time they get sick, and that includes when they get shingles. Some assume that if you get shingles, you should simply stay home and allow your body to recover. In reality, though, getting treatment within the first three days of your shingles illness is critical for preventing severe complications. If you believe you have shingles, call Dermatology Associates of Atlanta immediately to schedule an appointment so we can confirm the diagnosis and treat you promptly.

When you want to protect your health, the first step is knowing what to look for and how to react if you begin to develop symptoms. Understanding the truth behind the myths and misconceptions above will help you reduce your risk for shingles and the serious complications that can come with it. For more helpful tips to enhance your skin health, follow Dermatology Associates of Atlanta on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Common Myths About Acne

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Does toothpaste clear breakouts? Will I outgrow my acne? Can I correct my acne through my diet? These questions and more will be answered in this blog as Dermatology Associates of Atlanta (DAA) addresses common myths about acne in observance of Acne Awareness Month.

male-popping-face-pimpleMyth: Toothpaste Cures Breakouts.

DAA: A popular home remedy, toothpaste, has not been proven to relieve acne. Cooling and tingling you may experience from the toothpaste may just leave your pores even more blocked and irritated than they were before.

Myth: You Will Outgrow Your Acne.

DAA: Acne is the most common skin condition. Affecting as many as 40 – 50 million people per year, acne can prey on people at any age. Most people experience acne during adolescence or early adulthood because of hormonal spikes; however, acne can affect babies and children, women in menopause, the elderly, and everyone in between. If you are managing the effects of acne in your own life, know that you are not alone and there are many solutions that can help.

Myth: Your Acne is Caused by Your Diet.

DAA: Some studies have shown dairy has been associated with an increase in acne in females only. It is thought that hormones given to cows may be responsible. If the added hormones are responsible for acne, then this could be eliminated by eating/drinking organic dairy products. Some also speculate that acne may be reduced through the incorporation of a low-glycemic diet. The data on this is mixed. However, reducing high-glycemic foods can help control inflammation in the body and therefore may have some impact on the severity of breakouts.

Myth: Stress and Anxiety Can Cause a Breakout.

DAA: The data is also mixed on the link between stress and anxiety to acne. For some, it seems that psychological stress may have an impact on your skin. If you seem to get pesky pimples around stressful times, try stress management tactics such as yoga, meditation, long walks, or seeing a professional.

Myth: Washing Your Face Excessively Can Help Control Acne.

DAA: While washing your face once or twice daily with a mild cleanser is a good practice to implement into your daily routine, washing your face more than that may do more harm than good to your skin. Excessive scrubbing can leave your skin dry, red, and irritated, often worsening the appearance of acne.

We hope you find this blog both informative and helpful. If you have acne or any other concerns regarding a skin condition. Our dermatology providers offer an array of solutions at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta. Give us a call at (404) 256-4457.

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How Stress Affects Your Skin Health

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There’s no doubt that stress is present in our everyday lives. Between work, school, relationships, and an endless list of other reasons, there are many factors that can cause people to feel intense uneasiness. With prolonged stress over an extended period of time, skin condition can develop or worsen. Our experienced providers at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta want to explain the part that stress plays in skin health to encourage patients to make positive improvements in their mental states.

  • facial rejuvenation atlanta gaSeborrheic Dermatitis: Most often found on the scalp, seborrheic dermatitis is a type of inflammation that commonly appears as red, scaly patches of skin. Unmanaged stress can stimulate more outbreaks of this type of dermatitis.
  • Psoriasis: For people with psoriasis, it’s important to regulate stress to prevent unwanted “flare ups”. Dermatology Associates of Atlanta has an entire center dedicated to psoriasis, so we are well-equipped to handle any type of psoriasis symptoms.
  • Rosacea: Redness, inflammation, broken blood vessels and acne-like pimples are all characterizations of the skin condition, rosacea. Stress can be a “trigger” for rosacea, worsening the issues and causing them to appear more frequently.
  • Hair Loss: There have been many findings that link hair loss to stress or periods of emotional intensity. Our Griffin Center of Hair Restoration and Research is committed to using providing the most comprehensive diagnosis and treatment services available. If you have experienced hair loss from stress, we can help you create a more full and healthy head of hair.
  • Acne: When an individual is under a great deal of stress, their body may respond less quickly to healing skin conditions like acne. Pimples can increase in severity and last longer due to poor mental health.
  • Shingles: People who are susceptible to shingles outbreaks should be careful to manage their stress because it can weaken the immune system. Shingles can become serious if not treated with antiviral medication, so if you notice symptoms, contact Dermatology Associates of Atlanta immediately.

Each person’s stress load is different, so there isn’t a singular way to manage it. Receiving regular exercise, going to a cognitive behavioral therapist, and using relaxation methods like breathing or yoga are all ways that people can reduce the amount of stress that they experience. Many stress management tactics are discovered through trial and error, so don’t get discouraged if some of the recommendations don’t work for your needs.

If you have any questions or to schedule an appointment at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta, call us at (404) 256-4457. Don’t forget to follow you on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for the latest on skincare treatments and updates on our monthly cosmetic specials and events!

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Atlanta Spider and Varicose Vein Elimination with Kathryn Filipek MPAS, PA-C

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Although typically not a medical concern, spider and varicose veins can be unsightly and sometimes even painful. Appearing on the legs and the face, there are countless possible causes of these visible veins, but only a handful of proven treatments. Dermatology Associates of Atlanta provider Kathryn Filipek MPAS, PA-C performs sclerotherapy, Veinwave™ vein elimination, laser vein treatment, Vbeam Perfecta ™, and FotoFacial® treatments to reduce the appearance of these veins.

It is important to understand that spider and varicose veins do not serve a purpose and do not function normally, so vein reduction treatment is safe. Spider veins are branch-like veins that often show up on the legs and face. Varicose veins are also commonly found on the legs, appearing as swollen or raised blood vessels beneath the skin’s surface. Prior to the aforementioned technologies at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta’s Atlanta Center for Veins, more invasive techniques were used to treat veins like vein stripping (vein litigation) or the surgical removal of unwanted veins. Now, it’s easier than ever for patients to get rid of their spider and varicose veins.

The type of vein treatment used to treat spider and varicose veins depends on the size of the unwanted veins present. During a consultation, we will determine which treatment will best meet your specific needs. Sclerotherapy is a procedure to reduce varicose veins in which a sclerosing agent is injected into the veins. The sclerosing agent works by shrinking and minimizing the appearance of the damaged vein. Depending on the size of the vein, varicose veins can usually be removed in three to four treatment sessions.

Patients with spider veins may benefit from Veinwave™ vein elimination. Veinwave™ eliminates spider veins on the face and legs through the use of ultrafine needles and heat without a risk of skin discoloration (hyperpigmentation). This minimally invasive treatment is applied subepidermally and only penetrates the top layer of skin. It does not penetrate the vein itself. Most patients reach their desired results in just one treatment, but an additional treatment session may be necessary for maximum results depending on the size of the veins.

Patients who wish to remove spider veins from their face can receive FotoFacial® IPL treatment to minimize the appearance of spider veins and even rosacea symptoms without impacting the surface of the delicate facial skin. FotoFacial® treatment not only targets and reduces the appearance of spider veins, but it also stimulates collagen production and minimizes wrinkles. Most patients receive four to six FotoFacial® treatments for optimal results. Our V-beam Perfecta™ laser that we often use to treat patients with rosacea symptoms in the Laser Institute of Georgia provides an alternative laser treatment for spider veins. Using micropulse technology, the V-beam laser successfully reduces the appearance of spider veins while also reducing redness and inflammation often associated with rosacea.

If you’re concerned with spider or varicose veins, schedule a consultation with Kathryn Filipek today so she can help you determine which treatment method will best meet your needs. Visit our website to learn more about other skin conditions and treatments, as well as cosmetic procedures performed in Dermatology Associates of Atlanta’s eight specialty centers. If you haven’t already, be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for skin care news and updates.

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Simple Skincare: Maximizing Skin Health with a Few Easy Steps

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For those with no serious skin conditions, skincare can be something that often falls to the wayside when schedules get busy during the holiday season. However, even if you don’t suffer from rosacea or acne and aren’t ready for wrinkle treatments, it’s important to take care of your skin now to prevent future issues like the signs of aging or even skin cancer. There are four main steps to maintaining healthy skin: cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize, and apply sunscreen.

Cleanse: Choose a cleanser that works with your skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive, normal), and wash your skin once or twice a day with warm water. Over-cleansing can dry out your skin, and washing in very hot or cold water can cause broken capillaries or visible facial veins. Those with dry skin should choose a creamy cleanser, and oily-skinned individuals should opt for a clear cleanser. If you wear makeup, make sure to remove it with a makeup remover before going to bed to prevent dirt and bacteria from building up in your pores.

Exfoliate: In order to protect you from outside elements, your skin is constantly regenerating new skin cells. However, sometimes dead skin cells don’t slough off as easily as they should. Exfoliation helps to remove the dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Using a gentle scrub with small polishing particles, lightly rub the face in a circular motion working from the inside out.

Each person’s exfoliation schedule depends on his or her skin type. Those with more sensitive facial skin may need to stick to weekly exfoliation, while those with more durable or oily skin may exfoliate more often. The key to exfoliation is gentleness. Remember that the exfoliation process is supposed to leave the skin healthier afterward, not irritated and red.

Moisturize: There are multiple moisturizers on the market that work well for individuals of all different skin types. Cleansing the face removes any dirt or oil that could clog pores, but it also often strips the skin of its natural moisturizing and protective oils. By applying the appropriate moisturizer for your skin type, your skin can replenish the oils eliminated by the cleanser and protect itself from outside elements.

Apply Sunscreen: Of all the skincare steps one should take, applying daily sunscreen is the most important. The main cause of wrinkles is unprotected sun exposure. UV rays hasten the aging process, breaking down the support structure behind the skin creating lax tissue that makes us look older than we are. A simple daily application of a broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen on facial skin can help prevent advanced signs of aging as well as skin cancer. There are currently many moisturizers on the market that include SPF for a combination of the last two steps.

Skincare is often much simpler than people think. A quick 4-step regimen takes less than 10 minutes to complete and sets you up for healthy skin now and in the future. Our Skin Medics™ Medical Spa can formulate an easy skincare program catered toward your age and skin type.

For individuals who may suffer from dermatological problems like psoriasis or eczema and need more than a simple skincare regimen, we recommend you make an appointment with one of our highly trained dermatologists. We can also offer information on our other services like vein removal, laser tattoo removal, facial rejuvenation, and treatment of other skin conditions.

You can keep up with DAA’s latest news on Facebook and Twitter as well!

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Vitalize Peel® Product Spotlight

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Sun damage, irregular brown spots, rough skin, wrinkles, acne, and melasma are common skin conditions that people deal with or cover up daily. While these conditions are relatively normal, they are still embarrassing, especially when they occur on the face.  Skin Medics™ Medical Spa has the answer for these embarrassing blemishes: SkinMedica®’s Vitalize Peel®.

Another word for vitalize is encourage, or to give confidence, and the Vitalize Peel is undoubtedly a confidence booster as it remains SkinMedica® ’s most popular chemical peel. Chemical peels typically cause the skin to weep and peeling can occur for over one to two weeks. Vitalize Peel® is non-invasive and requires little to no down time; there is no weeping and two days after your treatment, your skin will peel for only two days and is then back to normal. The most significant change patients will notice is a smoothness of the skin, a glow of youthfulness, and a more evened skin tone. Additionally, the Vitalize Peel® is clinically proven to rebuild collagen: boosting skin’s firmness and minimizing the appearance of wrinkles. Results are noticeable after just one peel, but may require multiple (3-6) peels depending on the severity of the skin conditions present.

The Vitalize Peel® will help improve overall epidermal texture and tone for healthier, more youthful looking skin. Treatment sessions vary depending on a patient’s individual concerns, but begin at 30 minutes. While chemical peel prices vary from provider to provider, most Atlanta chemical peel patients can expect to pay around $120 for a 30 minute treatment.  Patients like the results of this peel, and because he has had the treatment himself, Dr. Griffin feels that it is safe and effective for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin. For more information on Skin Medics™ Medical Spa’s Vitalize Peel®, or other chemical peels that can help you meet your skin care needs, visit our website, and continue to read the Dermatology Associates of Atlanta blog.

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